David Beckham says that his inflamed right Achilles' tendon won't prevent him from taking the field Friday night when his Los Angeles Galaxy hosts the Chicago Fire. "I'll be ready," Beckham said after Thursday's practice. "I don't see why not. I've trained every day this week and I've worked on fitness this week so it's been good."
Los Angeles is poised to qualify for the MLS playoffs for the first time since 2005, when it won the MLS Cup. David Beckham, who arrived in 2007, still seeks his first taste of playoff action. "I think it would mean a lot to all of us," Beckham said. "It's been disappointing the last few years not even reaching the playoffs. We've made small steps forward this year and worked hard as a team. Hopefully, the hard work will play off."
Friday's game will affect the postseason picture. The winner will boost its chances of reaching the playoffs and could qualify outright if D.C. United loses or ties Chivas USA on Saturday night. Los Angeles and Chicago both have 41 points. Unlike the Galaxy, the Fire will be without its Designated Player on Friday, as midfielder Cuauhtemoc Blanco did not travel with the team due to a strained left hamstring.